Somalia: Protest Against Somaliland's May 18 Celebrations Erupts in Borama

BORAMA, Somalia — Demonstrators protesting events linked to Somaliland’s May 18 celebrations clashed with police on Sunday in the city of Borama after youths burned tires in parts of the town, witnesses and officials said.

Police fired live rounds to disperse the protesters, according to local reports, although no casualties were immediately reported.

Somaliland Foreign Minister Abdirahman Adan said the unrest initially stemmed from a dispute among youths during a football match before escalating into a security incident.

“It is possible that other elements became involved after the youths clashed during the game,” he said, praising residents for helping preserve calm in the city and the wider Awdal region.

Borama has recently become a focal point for debate surrounding celebrations marking May 18, the date on which Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991.

Tensions in the city increased in recent weeks after remarks by poet Daaha Gaas concerning ownership of the coastal town of Saylac sparked anger among local youths. Protesters subsequently opposed a planned musical performance by the group Dayaxa Band in Borama.

The latest unrest also revived memories of protests late last year in Borama linked to disputes over Saylac, during which at least 19 people were killed, according to local accounts.

GAROWE ONLINE